What does '2' indicate in the compartment label 2-123-1-L?

In the compartment label 2-123-1-L, the '2' designates the deck or level of the compartment on the ship. Each compartment on naval vessels is labeled according to its location, and the first number typically indicates the deck number. Decks are numbered such that '1' usually represents the main deck, with higher numbers indicating compartments on upper decks and lower numbers indicating those on lower decks. This system ensures that personnel can quickly identify the vertical position of a compartment within the ship.

Understanding this labeling system is critical for navigating a naval ship effectively, as it aids in locating specific compartments during operations or emergencies. The other components of the label tell you additional information, such as the compartment number (123), the specific section within that deck (1), and the classification of the compartment (L for living space, for example).